The topic chosen for the Saint Peter’s College 37th Annual Regents Business Symposium November 7, 2008, was Leadership and Accountability in Challenging Times. The purpose of the forum is to inform and discuss current events in business and politics. The attendees, a standing-room-only crowd, listened to speakers who did just that from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Best-selling author and NBC News Presidential Historian, Michael Beschloss was the symposium’s keynote speaker. The featured speakers were Saint Peter’s alumnus Tony Terracciano ‘60, chairman, Sallie Mae; Anthony R. Coscia, Esq., chairman, Board of Commissioners, Port Authority of NY/NJ.; and Sheri S. McCoy, worldwide chairman, Surgical Care, Johnson & Johnson. Jersey City Mayor Jerramiah T. Healy also offered remarks.
As expected, the speakers addressed the topic from the perspective of their careers. Coscia, the morning’s first speaker, pointed out that even though the country is “hemorrhaging jobs, and the economy is bleak,” it is still important to improve infrastructure because, “it stimulates the economy.”
Immediately following Coscia’s question-and-answer period, McCoy stepped to the lectern to address issues concerning healthcare and global business practices based on her extensive international experience.
Terracciano ticked off a number of “crises” that occurred over the last 30 years and told the audience, “We keep stepping on a rake. Collectively, we’re pretty dumb.” He justified that statement with a number of causes for our problems, as well as suggestions.
Beschloss, who appears regularly on NBC News programs, including Meet the Press and Today, provides television viewers with expert analysis of the executive branch, and historical perspective on today’s leadership. Since the symposium took place only three days after the historic presidential election, the audience was eager to hear him speak.
Beschloss used many anecdotes and comparisons of various presidents to make his points, and keep his listeners engaged.
Despite the souring economy and the day’s gloomy weather, 389 guests came out to make this year’s symposium the College’s most attended symposium ever. Over the past 37 years, the symposium has evolved into one of the signature events of both the College and the community. All proceeds from this event will support students through the Patricia Q. Sheehan H ’77 Annual Scholarship and the College’s current capital campaign.